Meet an Osher Donor

Osher member Ruth Miluski decided earlier in the year to join the Founders group of the Osher Advocates. We sat down with Ruth to find out what she values most about lifelong learning.

How long have you been associated with Osher?

Since its beginning, at Lenoir Community Center – even back that far!

What value does Osher bring to your life?

You can have a singular learning experience, but there's something different about a community of learners. Walking into a classroom of eager students gives me something that I don't get through reading a book. It's like a fine meal served at a dinner party; the host puts in a great deal of preparation, and then the conversation makes it magical.

What do you enjoy most about being a student at Osher?

I enjoy the discipline of coming to class on time and doing the assignments. As a retired person, without many demands, discipline is something new. Also, the Osher community is inspiring and the staff is wonderful.

Can you please share a favorite moment/experience at Osher?

When I was still working, I took Kit Salter's class on the sense of place. My pattern for learning prior to that was to either read a book or look inward. I learned that you must pay attention and look and see out. It changed me a great deal, and I'm a keen observer of nature now – when I walk around I'm much more observant.

What else do you think Osher participants might want to know about you?

I love stories of people, what they enjoy doing. What is your story? What's your 'ordinary?' I think the ordinary can be spectacular.

Donate

Founding Members — Osher Advocates

The following individuals/couples each donated $1,000 in support of Osher’s mission as part of the original Osher Advocate campaign, which ended in 2017. We sincerely appreciate their leadership and generosity.

Friends of Osher

Special thanks to the Friends of Osher, who have provided support through monetary contributions above their registration fees. (Gifts received during the 2018 Fiscal Year, updated through April 30, 2018)

Business Supporters

Becoming a Friend of Osher

Please consider making a tax-deductible donation in support of Osher@Mizzou’s future. Donations help our organization better serve its membership, keep fees affordable and solidify the future of Osher’s programming and mission.

It’s easy to support Osher@Mizzou. Thank you for taking the time to support this meaningful continuing-education program

Give by mail
Mail your check, payable to University of Missouri, to Osher@Mizzou, 344 Hearnes Center, Columbia, MO 65211. If your gift is in honor of a friend, loved one or mentor, please specify a name for the tribute.

Give in other ways
If you are interested in contributing in other, even more substantial or specific ways such as supporting an endowed lecture series or significantly endowing another aspect of Osher, we would love to meet with you to explore ideas.

If you would like more information, contact Osher’s staff atOsher@Mizzou.eduor (573) 882-8189. You may also request a confidential conversation about options by contacting the office of MU Extension Advancement at 573-884-8570 ormuextadvancement@missouri.edu.